The inhabitants of Santo Antão, called Santantonenses, are very humble people. The island’s culture is very important to them. The inhabitants greatly value their culture and traditions.
Traditions are passed down from generation to generation by the elders of the family. The residents are incredibly hospitable and always open their doors to welcome people, including strangers. The Santantonenses help each other whenever necessary.
One of the most beautiful traditions is the act of always giving and bringing something with them when visiting each other. It is not about the material value but rather about friendship. The gift serves as a symbol of their solidarity and empathy, in short: the true “Cape Verdean morabeza”…
The inhabitants firmly believe that there exists saints wich protects the island and its people. For this reason, they honor the Saints exuberantly during the pelgrimmage. The people strongly believe that the Saints answer their prayers. When theire prayers are answered the faithfull forfile the promisses they made.
On the island of Santo Antão, it is noticeable that the elderly are living to a very old age. This is mainly because they eat healthy. They consume what they harvest from their lands. Another reason is that they walk long distances by foot since childhood, which ensures good physical condition. Santo Antão is also very special because all kinds of medicinal flora can be found here. The inhabitants know and recognize these plants because this knowledge has been passed down from their ancestors.
Elderly people are highly respected by Cape Verdeans, as they are the pillars of families. Many children are raised by their grandparents. This happens when parents immigrate to the West in search of a better life. That is why grandparents, particularly in Santo Antão, play a crucial role in the education of their grandchildren and, in many cases, in the upbringing of future generations. Another reason why families are so close is because their children often stay at home with their parents. This may be for economic reasons, but the main reason is that families take care of each other, generation after generation.
Examples of Traditions
In the Case of Death
When someone passes away, the family welcomes those who come to offer their condolences at the home of the deceased. Since social cohesion is very strong, everyone who knew the deceased, including friends, colleagues, neighbors, and others in their social circle, comes to express their condolences and help in any way necessary. Traditionally, when there was no transportation, people from all the villages on the island would walk to the deceased’s home. They would bring all kinds of things from their lands—harvests, grogue, coffee, animals, etc. On the day of the funeral, everyone walks behind the coffin to the cemetery as a sign of respect for the deceased. Everyone dresses in black or white.
On the seventh day, the day when Christ was resurrected, the entire community gathers again at the deceased’s home. A funeral ceremony is held, and a candle is lit. In a gesture of solidarity, everyone brings food and drinks.
Birth
When a baby is born, a protection ceremony is held on the seventh day. Family members, friends, and acquaintances gather at the house where the baby was born. Traditionally, this is an evening gathering with snacks and drinks. The purpose of this night is to unite and gather strength to protect the baby at midnight. A special song, “O menino na”, is sung to protect the baby from the “witch.” The “witch” actually refers to the first crucial seven days of a newborn’s life from a scientific perspective.
“O menino na”
Religious Festival Calendar – Santo Antão 2025
| Location | Date | Event |
|---|---|---|
| Ribeira Grande | May 1 | Saint Joseph (Sinagoga Ribeira Grande) – Solemn Mass |
| Cultural and Social Activities | ||
| May 3 | Holy Cross (Coculi) | |
| May 1–3 | Horse Racing | |
| May 2 | People’s Ball | |
| May 3 | Solemn Mass | |
| Paul – Santo Antão das Pombas | May 1–31 | Paul Fest |
| May 11–13 | Goods and Clothing Fair – Lombinho | |
| May 12 | Candlelight Procession and Ensemble Ball | |
| May 13 | Our Lady of Fatima | |
| Paul – Continuation | June 1 | Children’s Singing Gala |
| June 2 | Chateau’s Anniversary | |
| June 5–8 | Activities to Celebrate Environment Day | |
| June 6 | “Everyone Sings” Vocal Competition | |
| June 7 | Cape Verdean Night in Paul | |
| June 8 | Opening of the Goods and Services Fair | |
| Miss Inter-High Schools | ||
| June 10 | Color Party | |
| June 11 | Start of Horse Racing | |
| June 12 | Solemn Session at Municipal Assembly + Procession Cabo da Ribeira > Vila | |
| June 13 | Solemn Mass at Church Square + Horse Race Finale | |
| June 14 | “Santantoninho” – Cabo da Ribeira | |
| End of Activities | ||
| Porto Novo – São João Batista | June 22–24 | Horse Racing Start |
| June 22–23 | People’s Ball | |
| June 22 | St. John’s Parade | |
| June 23 | Pilgrimage: Ribeira das Patas > Porto Novo | |
| June 24 | Solemn Mass | |
| June 25 | “São Johnzinho” – Ribeira das Patas | |
| Chã d’Igreja – São Pedro | June 28–29 | Horse Racing Start |
| June 28 | Theatre Show | |
| June 29 | Ensemble Dance | |
| Paul – Nossa Sra da Piedade (Janela) | August | No Horse Racing |
| August 14 | Pilgrimage of Boats and Sails | |
| August 15 | Solemn Mass | |
| August 10 or 15 | People’s Ball | |
| August 15 | Procession and Cultural Activities | |
| Ponta do Sol – Nossa Sra do Livramento | September 21 | People’s Ball |
| September 22 | Horse Racing Start | |
| September 24 | Solemn Mass and Pilgrimage | |
| Other Cultural and Social Activities | ||
| Ribeira Grande – Santa Teresinha | October 1 | Saint Therese |
| Ribeira Grande – Nossa Sra do Rosário | October 7 | Masses and Religious Celebrations |
| Cultural and Sports Activities |
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Cabo Verde is a paradise of stunning landscapes, rich traditions, and warm hospitality. From the breathtaking valleys of Santo Antão to the vibrant streets of Mindelo, every island has its own charm waiting to be explored. Watch our video and get inspired!
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